I really enjoyed the view of Big Bear Lake from our patio at the Marina Riviera.
I found it so serene and relaxing.
We soon headed on out, stopping at Sister My Sister Bake Shop for some coffee and for something small for breakfast.
It’s a cute little bakery, designed for takeout.
Looking for something more savory, I got the Bacon Cheddar Chive Scone ($5.25) to go.
Sister My Sister Bake Shop
40191 Big Bear Blvd.
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
We then back tracked thru downtown Big Bear, crossing the lake on the Stanfield Cutoff, finding parking alongside the Alpine Pedal Path. Which was on the opposite side of the lake from where we were staying. We sat on one of the benches and enjoyed the view.
While I had my hefty, dense scone.
I enjoyed the fact that the scone, even though quite dense, wasn’t overly dry.
Once finished, we set off on the paved path. I know it was somewhat too easy for the Missus, but I really enjoyed the view.
And the round trip was 5.3 miles. Enough for a nice morning.
Eventually, you end up around some campgrounds and a forested area.
And at the Big Bear Solar Observatory, which we could see from our hotel across the lake, we turned around and headed back.
We drove back to the Marina Riviera, parked and decided to look for a place to have an early lunch.
For some reason, She was attracted to Himalayan Restaurant, which had a back patio that’s dog friendly.
So, we got a table. The gentleman who served us was very friendly. And when he found out that we were from San Diego, he told us that he used to work at Himalayan Cuisine in La Mesa! Which is why we ended up visiting upon returning to San Diego.
The Missus saw several dishes that appealed to Her, starting with the Rogan Josh.
Man, that lamb was so tender, but still gamey enough to enjoy. We loved the complex spices and earthy tones and it did have a bit of heat to it.
We also got the Okra dish….which seemed like a version of Bhindi Masala. This actually had some decent spice as well.
We enjoyed the “neba neba” of the okra, which even presented a bit of sweetness; the acidity of the tomatoes, and the pungent and earthy tones from the spices.
Both dishes went well with the crisp, but tender naan.
And we even had some rice….nice and fragrant, fulfilling our carbs for the rest of the week!
The Missus really enjoyed this meal….and now has a favorite restaurant in Big Bear!
Himalayan Restaurant
672 Pine Knot Ave.
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
After a short respite, we decided to check out a place I’d read about right on Big Bear Lake with a kind of iconic view, Boulder Bay Park. So we drive on over and in spite of the tiny lot there was quite a bit of parking available. Everything is nicely maintained, grassy areas, with a paved walkway meandering thru the park.
If one ignores the buildings across the street and on the east side of the cove, it makes for a lovely scene.
I was told that sunset was prime time here for photographers, though there was a group taking wedding photos. It was a nice little stop.
As we were leaving the park, there was a line of cars waiting to get in….and traffic back into Big Bear was crazy. Well, it seemed like the weekend had just hit!
We parked at the hotel and walked back up Pine Knot Avenue….but man, things were really hopping. Later we walked back up looking for some places to have dinner, but things were just too crowded. We headed back to the Marina Riviera and just decided to grab a small bite and have some drinks. After all, we still had a $25 credit for food and drink for the evening.
Man, the place was hopping.
While there was seating at the bar, all other tables were taken.
But then Kinzey and then the wonderful woman who I believe is the chef at this location, Jenn saw us. Both of them had been so wonderful, accommodating, and friendly during our stay, so naturally, in spite of the discount, we tipped well. And they also loved JJ! So, perhaps he’s earning his keep? Anyway, they told us to hold on a for a minute and put together a table for us! Amazing!
So, we had a nice light dinner and cocktails at De la Nonna.
At the end of our meal, Kinzey gave me her business card saying to text her if we’re headed up and she’ll give us info on what is going on!
Well, I know where we’re staying and eating when we get back to Big Bear, right?
De la Nonna Big Bear (In the Hotel Marina Riviera)
40770 Big Bear Blvd.
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
The next morning we headed out and traffic was pretty crazy….so note to self, even on random fall weekends….things are busy in Big Bear….I’ll need to plan a bit better next time!
beautiful area